Zim citizens in SA will settle smoothly on return,...

Zim citizens in SA will settle smoothly on return, says govt

The ZEP is expected to finally expire at the end of June 2023

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabweans set to be repatriated from South Africa following the expiry of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permits around mid-year will settle smoothly in the country without any challenges, government has said.

Home Affairs Deputy Minister, Ruth Maboyi-Ncube said government had already started preparations for the anticipated return of its citizens in South Africa.

“The customs and immigration department is in the know and ready to assist. They are also aware that the nationals are returning with property and vehicles and know what to do in that regard. We promise a smooth passage as a Ministry,” she said.

Government has already said it will facilitate a duty-free importation of goods, property and vehicles for nationals as they return as they are aware that returnees have accumulated movable property during their stay in South Africa.

She also said those of school going age will continue with their education in Zimbabwe.

“We will ensure they get into our schools as long as they can produce proof of schooling in South Africa. We will then blend them with other learners in our schools. We are yet to meet with the relevant Ministry and discuss the finer details regarding schooling but we see no challenges,” said Maboyi-Ncube.

She also said the returnees must get identity documents on arrival.

“Our processes have not changed. When they come, they must go straight to the registry department and get national Identity Documents and passports. For those who do not have birth certificates we encourage them to seek birth records from South Africa where they will have been born so that we ensure they get documents here,” she added.

The ZEP are set to expire on June 30, 2023 after South African Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi issued a 12-month grace period to December 2022 for ZEP holders to either apply for another type of permit or leave the country.

The SA government later granted an extension up to June 30, 2023.

The ZEP, which allowed about 178 000 Zimbabweans to stay in the country, officially ended on 31 December 2021.